Lead:
Lebanon's internal security directorate has issued a public warning against fraudulent text messages circulating under its name, demanding payment for fictitious traffic violations. Concurrently, President Joseph Aoun received a delegation from the Task Force for Lebanon to discuss implementation of a framework agreement, while the army continues counter-narcotics operations in the Bekaa region. Political circles have raised concerns about potential UNIFIL withdrawal and Israeli operations near the Ali al-Tahir hill.
Details:
According to Al-Addiyar, the General Directorate of Internal Security Forces issued a statement alerting citizens to an ongoing fraud scheme in which individuals receive text messages falsely claiming to originate from the security forces and demanding payment to settle non-existent traffic violations. The security directorate has cautioned the public to disregard such messages and exercise vigilance against similar scams.
President Joseph Aoun met with a delegation headed by Edward Gabriel, representing the Task Force for Lebanon organization, at the presidential palace in Baabda. During the meeting, Aoun emphasized Lebanon's reliance on United States support for the implementation of what was referred to as the "framework agreement," suggesting ongoing diplomatic negotiations between Lebanese leadership and Washington on strategic matters requiring international backing.
The Lebanese Army's command issued a statement through its guidance directorate confirming that military operations continue across multiple Lebanese regions targeting security violators and combating drug trafficking, with particular focus on the Bekaa region. This reflects ongoing counter-narcotics enforcement efforts that remain a strategic priority for the armed forces.
Political circles, as reported by Al-Addiyar, have expressed concern about Israel's stated rejection of any European role—specifically French and Spanish involvement—in the southern Lebanese territories, whether within UNIFIL structures or other oversight mechanisms. These circles have warned that potential UNIFIL withdrawal could create security vacuums dangerous for Lebanon's stability.
Additionally, according to available information cited by Al-Addiyar, Washington does not appear to have granted Israel a green light for a large-scale military operation to control the Ali al-Tahir hill and surrounding areas, though the United States reportedly continues to maintain implicit coverage of ongoing Israeli military activities in the region.
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